Cambodian, Australian Lawmakers Reaffirm Strong Parliamentary Ties and Shared Commitment to Peace

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.16, 2025) — Cambodian National Assembly President Khuon Sudary and Australian lawmaker Fiona Phillips reaffirmed their countries’ strong parliamentary ties and shared commitment to peace and development during a courtesy meeting in Phnom Penh.

Phillips, Chair of the Standing Committee on Regional Development, Infrastructure and Transport in the Australian House of Representatives, met Sudary at the National Assembly Palace as part of an official visit.

Sudary said the delegation’s visit marked a new chapter in Cambodia–Australia parliamentary relations, coinciding with the 73rd anniversary of diplomatic ties established in 1952.

She praised Australia’s longstanding support, including its role in the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) and its estimated AUD 50 million in pandemic-related assistance.

She also thanked Australia for its concern during the recent border conflict with Thailand, which displaced civilians, especially women and children. “Cambodia is a small country that has suffered from war for decades. We seek only peace,” Sudary said.

Phillips commended Cambodia’s resilience and infrastructure progress, including the new Techo International Airport. She highlighted cooperation in education, health care, and women’s empowerment, and praised Australian volunteers working in local communities.

Sudary expressed hope for a direct flight link between the two countries to boost tourism and people-to-people exchanges. Both sides pledged to deepen parliamentary cooperation and contribute to regional peace and prosperity.